Emirates (UAE) is set to spend $5 billion on retrofitting 220 aircraft, as the airline faces delays in the delivery of new aircraft from manufacturers. President Tim Clark emphasized that this investment is essential to sustaining the airline’s extensive global network while awaiting fleet modernization.
AirExplore (Slovakia) and its sister carrier SmartLynx Airlines (Latvia) are currently evaluating changes to their narrowbody freighter strategy, signaling potential adjustments in fleet deployment and operational focus. The move comes amid shifts in demand for converted cargo aircraft, as well as ongoing market fluctuations in the air freight sector.
Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, has bolstered its fleet by wet-leasing an Airbus A320, serial number 2975, from SmartLynx Airlines. This strategic move replaces a departing A320, ensuring seamless operations across its domestic and regional networks.
Air China has strengthened its regional fleet with the delivery of a COMAC C909, marking another step in the airline’s commitment to operational efficiency and network growth. The aircraft, bearing serial number 10177, is registered as B-332H and is powered by CF34-10A engines.
Turkish Airlines has made significant progress in reducing the number of grounded aircraft, with a decrease of ten in its fleet. The airline remains optimistic that additional aircraft will return to service in 2026, helping to stabilize operations amid ongoing supply chain and maintenance challenges.
Texel Air Australasia (New Zealand) has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF), serial number 36804, as part of its ongoing fleet expansion. The aircraft was delivered to Auckland and will be deployed across the carrier’s regional and international cargo network.
Sichuan Airlines (China) has taken delivery of an Airbus A320neo, expanding its single-aisle fleet. The aircraft, manufacturer serial number (MSN) 12426, is registered as B-32KV and is powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1127G-JM engines.
SalamAir (Oman) has agreed with Embraer to postpone the delivery of six E195-E2 aircraft, citing operational challenges related to engine performance in hot and dusty environments. The aircraft were initially scheduled for delivery in 2024, but the airline has decided to defer them until a later date.
Qatar Airways is set to announce a major widebody aircraft order in April 2025, as part of its ongoing fleet expansion and modernization strategy. The order is expected to enhance the airline’s long-haul capabilities, ensuring continued operational efficiency and network growth.
Icelandair has taken delivery of an Airbus A321neo, further advancing its fleet renewal efforts. The aircraft, manufacturer serial number (MSN) 12359, is registered as TF-IAB and is powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1133G-JM engines. This addition marks another step in Icelandair’s strategy to phase out older aircraft and modernize its narrowbody fleet.
